Driving is one of the most dangerous activities on earth. But if you know what to do, you can avoid accidents and keep yourself safe behind the wheel.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that there were over 3 million crashes in 2016, resulting in nearly 37,000 deaths and almost 5.3 million injuries. In addition to being deadly, driving is also expensive. According to AAA, the average cost of an auto accident is $9,500.

Know the Rules.
It’s not enough to just learn how to drive; you need to understand the rules of the road as well. You should know where you can legally park, when you must wear seatbelts, and how to handle emergencies such as collisions with other vehicles.

Drive Safely.
If you want to stay out of trouble while driving, you need to know the rules of the road. This includes knowing the speed limit, obeying stop signs and signals, staying within the right lane, and following the posted distance between cars.

Avoid Distractions.
You should also pay attention to other drivers and pedestrians when you’re behind the wheel. Don’t text or talk on your phone while driving; instead, use hands-free devices. And never drink alcohol before driving.

Don’t Drink And Drive.
If you’re going to drive, make sure you’re sober. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction times, making it harder to control your vehicle. It also affects your ability to see clearly, so you might not notice hazards until it’s too late.

Slow Down For Construction Zones.
You should slow down when driving through construction zones. This will help you stay alert and aware of potential dangers.